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Mizinga Jacqueline Tembo is a research laboratory scientist with a BSc in Biomedical Sciences who has just completed her MSc in Infectious Diseases at the London School of Hygiene and Tropical Medicine. Her interests in research immunology include studying immune modulation with a focus on viruses and T cell responses.
We would love to hear more about your ongoing research. What projects are you currently working on and how do they impact the field?
Among other projects, I am currently employed under the VITALITY research project, a clinical trial that is investigating the impact of high-dose vitamin D supplementation on bone development in HIV-infected adolescents in Lusaka, Zambia. We have been evaluating T cell immune responses in adolescents living with HIV, comparing immune activation between the group receiving vitamin D supplementation and the placebo group. This study will lead to insights on the immunomodulatory role of vitamin D supplementation in adolescents living with HIV.
What inspired you to choose immunology over other branches of science?
I was drawn to immunology because of its dynamic and impactful role in understanding and improving human health, especially through the lens of infectious diseases and immune responses. Taking an immunology course during my BSc degree opened my eyes to the complexity and relevance of immune science, from its vast terminology to the intricate cellular interactions. Furthermore, my work experience made me realize that immunology uniquely aligns with my passion for research and my desire to make a tangible difference in people’s lives, particularly in areas like HIV research where immune health is critical.
What specifically stood out about Immunopaedia that made you want to be an ambassador?
I was impressed by how the Immunopaedia organizers encourage learning at every step and inspired by the diverse national representation among the ambassadors.
Based on your own experience, what one piece of advice would you give someone who wants to enter the field of immunology?
Immunology research requires a lot of time and patience, especially where cellular based assays are concerned. It’s okay to not get it right on the first try, but always learn from the mistakes.
Do not be intimidated by the extensive terminology; the more you read and conduct research, the faster you’ll learn what you need to know.
Immunology encompasses a lot of other disciplines hence the learning never stops. Always strive to learn more and acquire new skills.
What has been a moment of unexpected joy or surprise in your scientific career that has stayed with you?
Recently, I attended my first immunology workshop, and I was pleasantly surprised by how engaging it was. The scientific presentations and discussions were captivating, leading me to conclude that immunology is the best field for advancing my scientific career.
May we please have your most recent publications?
Besa EC, Tembo MJ, Mulenga C, Mweetwa M, Choudhry N, Chandwe K, Storer C, Head R, Haritunians T, McGovern D, Amadi B, Kwenda G, Peiris M, Kelly P. Potential determinants of low circulating glucagon-like peptide 2 concentrations in Zambian children with non-responsive stunting. Experiment physiology. 2023;2. doi: 10.1113/EP090492.
Schillinger RJ, Mwakamui S, Mulenga C, Tembo M, Hodges P, Besa E, Chandwe K, Owino VO, Edwards CA, Kelly P, Morrison DJ. 13C-sucrose breath test for the non-invasive assessment of environmental enteropathy in Zambian adults. Frontiers in Medicine. 2022;9. doi.org/10.3389/fmed.2022.904339
Dzavakwa, N.V., Chisenga, M., McHugh, G., Filteau, S., Gregson, C.L., Kasonka, L., Kranzer, K., Mabuda, H.B., Mujuru, H., Redzo, N., Rowland-Jones, S., Schaible, U.E., Simms, V., Ferrand, R.A., the VITALITY team*, 2022. Vitamin D3 and calcium carbonate supplementation for adolescents with HIV to reduce musculoskeletal morbidity and immunopathology (VITALITY trial): study protocol for a randomised placebo-controlled trial. Trials 23, 78. doi.org/10.1186/s13063-021-05985-0.
